The critical lens states that when a dictator dies, his ordinance ends, but when a self-sacrificing individual dies, their legacy begins. This statement is true because oppressed citizens do not fondly mention a mean ruler, such as Creon from Antigone, after he passes away. Yet a martyr, such as Antigone, also from the story Antigone, is remembered for her self-sacrificing deeds. Creon will not be remembered because he did not allow Antigone to bury her dead brother Polynices, and decides to execute Antigone for trying. Antigone's legacy will live on because she has the courage to defy Creon, and chooses to sacrifice herself for Polynices' honor.

First, Creon is a tyrant. His rule will not be remembered for many reasons, one being that he desecrates family honor. When a son or father dies in battle, they are carried home to be properly buried by their families. Eteocles, Antigone's other dead brother, is a patriot and is buried because he fights for Thebes.

Nikiforos Lytras, Antigone in front of the dead Po...

Cadmus Sowing the Dragon's teeth, by Maxfield Parr...

Antigone And The Body Of Polynices - Project Guten...

However, Polynices is not buried because he rebels against Thebes. Creon leaves Polynices' body out to be attacked by dogs and vultures. This angers the people of Thebes because family honor is very important to them. Therefore, the people of Thebes will not remember Creon because of his offensive deeds performed while he is on the throne.

Second, Creon will be forgotten because he decides to execute Antigone. Her punishment is to be locked in a blocked cave until she dies. Although later on in the story, Creon does decide to free her, it is too late. The people of Thebes are astounded at the fact that Creon would even conceive of such a horrible punishment. Antigone acted on family honor, which is understood. Therefore, his people will forget Creon.

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2 pages33Jun/20063.7

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